Data indicates that when a mandatory managed care program begins, the ratio of those who choose a plan to those who default is 30:70 (consistent with DHCS results). Within a year, this number usually flips to 70:30. Given the June birth month enrollees are already responding faster than the May ones did, DHCS estimates this flip will occur by June 1, 2012. DHCS believes that the reason 14.76% less enrolled than were eligible could be due to eligibility issues such as those who qualify for dual status (Medi-Medis).

Number enrolled who chose plans: 7,976 (31%)
Number enrolled who were defaulted: 17,792 (69%)Total enrollees: 25,768 (14.76% less than those originally notified)

DHCS attempted to link enrollees who defaulted to their usual source of care, including primary care providers or clinics. They were only able to link 8% and are analyzing the reason for this low number, such as interfacing with plans, in order to find ways to increase it. They found that 20-22% of those they had to default had no utilization data. Participants mentioned that changing doctors is not always a negative outcome because it allows the patient to establish a new medical home. In addition, enrollees who prefer a specialist as their medical home might not have been aware that this was a possibility.

Linked to previous provider: 1,411 (8%)Default assigned: 16,381 (92%)

DHCS mentioned that they are very open to making necessary adjustments as this program rolls out, starting with updating the 14-year-old enrollment packet.